Minister Grange, who was one of the featured presenters at the Workshop, pointed out that through collaboration with neighbouring territories, Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean will be able to enhance their cultural and creative industries, which will contribute to the growth and development of the region.

“The CCIMU will further position and enhance the cultural and creative industries for greater global competitiveness and economic growth, by leveraging local brands for sustainable prosperity; increasing youth employment and thereby economic advancement within the youth population; promoting greater economic and social stability for women engaged in these industries; and creating new platforms of engagement to expand the global reach and revenue generation for Caribbean culture and entertainment,” Minister Grange said.

She further noted that the Unit, when established, will also address the needs of the regional creative industries, including business development, trade opportunities, and the protection of artists’ and stakeholders’ intellectual property rights.

During the visit, Minister Grange held discussions with her counterpart Ministers in Trinidad and Tobago, Honourable Darryl Smith, Minister of Sports and Youth and Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Culture and Community Development on a range of areas of mutual interest and cooperation in sport, culture and entertainment. The Minister also met with Peter Minshall, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s prominent Carnival Artist Designer, to explore the possibility of some of his iconic pieces being incorporated into the upcoming Jamaica 54 Grand Gala, on independence Day 2016.

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